SOC Lifetime Achievement Awards Tribute Book 2025 by Society of Camera Operators

February 15, 2025

Loews Hollywood Hotel, Hollywood, Ca

Patron Sponsor

Title Sponsors

Supporting Sponsors

Photo by Zade Rosenthal

The Society of Camera Operators is proud

to announce the recipients of the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Awards

JAMES RAMOS AND JOHN SCHREIBER PRESIDENT’S AWARD

LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT - AIR OPERATIONS SECTION GOVENORS AWARD

BONNIE BLAKE, SOC CAMERA OPERATOR, FILM & TELEVISION

LARRY HEIDER CAMERA OPERATOR, BROADCAST & LIVE

JOHN ARMSTRONG CAMERA OPERATOR, UNSCRIPTED

JAMIE FELZ CAMERA TECHNICIAN

TIM CHRISTIE MOBILE CAMERA PLATFORM OPERATOR

ZADE ROSENTHAL STILL PHOTOGRAPHER

NODO FILM SYSTEMS TECHNICAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

2025 CAMERA OPERATORS OF THE YEAR

NOMINEES for FILM:

BIANCA BUTTI – Challengers, with TERRENCE HAYES, “B” Camera Operator and PATRICK QUINN, “C” Camera Operator

MICHAEL FUCHS, SOC – Wolfs, with REBECCA RAJADNYA, “B” Camera Operator (NY), and KEITH DUNKERLEY, “B” Camera Operator (LA)

KARSTEN BLOCH JACOBSEN, DFF – Wicked, with SIMON FINNEY, GBCT, ACO, “B” Camera Operator

P. SCOTT SAKAMOTO, SOC – A Complete Unknown

DAVID J. THOMPSON, SOC – Civil War, with HUGH BRASELTON, “B” Camera Operator

NOMINEES for TELEVISION:

SCOTT DROPKIN, SOC – Yellowstone, S5E14 “Life is a Promise” with ABBY LINNE, SOC, “B” Camera Operator, and JED SEUS, “C” Camera Operator

SAM ELLISON, SOC – The Penguin, S1E4 “Cent’Anni” with ELI ARONOFF, SOC, “B” Camera Operator

MICHAEL FUCHS, SOC – Mr. & Mrs. Smith, S1E1 “First Date” with REBECCA RAJADNYA, “B” Camera Operator

CHRIS HAARHOFF, SOC – Fallout, S1E1 “The End” with ROBERT CAMPBELL, “B” Camera Operator

GARY MALOUF – The Bear, S3E1 “Tomorrow” with CHRIS DAME, “B” Camera Operator

CineMoves is proud to support the SOC in honoring the achievements of this year’s recipients. All experts in the “Art of camera movement” and composition. A special thank you to our first responders being honored. You are all true heroes!

Photo by Zade Rosenthal

Welcome from SOC President

Our mission tonight is to create an experience that, if only for a few hours, makes everyone in attendance think about something other than what our city has just been through. We want you to laugh. We want you to rejoice in the accomplishments of our lifetime honorees. We want you to be inspired by the work of those nominated for Camera Operator of the Year. We want you to remember why you love what you do, even if the world beyond our little red carpet is telling you to forget.

And once we’ve gotten a hefty, healing dose of joy and togetherness, I promise we will acknowledge what has happened in Los Angeles in a truly memorable way, honoring some actual, flesh-and-blood heroes who define courage. Risking their lives to save our city. Risking their lives to tell the story of how our city was saved.

Though the SOC has a long tradition of honoring unsung heroes, this year it’s taken on a whole new meaning. And I have never been more proud to be part of it.

Now let’s get this party started!

Sincerely,

Matthew Moriarty , SOC President

Matthew Moriarty, SOC has spent 28 years in the camera department and has an amassed roughly 80 major credits on feature films and television. He served for 12 years as a member of the National Executive Board of IATSE Local 600. In 2023 he was elected President of the Society of Camera Operators (SOC), an organization that twice nominated him for Camera Operator of the Year (2018 and 2021). Matthew lives in Oregon’s Willamette Valley with his wife and daughters.

The Society of Camera Operators (SOC) welcomes you to our gala LifetimeAchievement Awards. We are honoring the craft of the operator and celebrating the crew. The SOC also acknowledges outstanding individuals through our Lifetime Achievement Awards. Thank you for joining the Society of Camera Operator Lifetime Achievement Awards 2025.

Photo courtesy of Matthew Moriarty

Photo by Zade Rosenthal

About the SOC

The Society of Camera Operators began in 1979 as the Society of Operating Cameramen (SOC)—an organization dedicated to the advancement of the art and creative contributions of the camera operator in the motion picture and television industries.

Thirteen camera operators banded together with the goal of advancing the position of the working camera operator in the motion picture and television industries. They drew up a constitution and by-laws and the Society of Operating Cameramen was born.

Having since changed its name to The Society of Camera Operators, the SOC continues to bring industry leaders and cinematic artists into close confederation. Society members are kept at the forefront of the industry’s ever-advancing technology through continuing workshops and corporate sponsored equipment showcases.

Our Camera Operator quarterly magazine is noted for its significant contribution to the industry. Informative articles and interviews range from historical pieces to in-depth coverage of the most current technology.

Vision is the most important sense that camera operators use in our daily work. As such, it bonds SOC members to children with vision problems. Incorporated as a nonprofit charitable organization in 1981, the SOC

OFFICERS

President

1st Vice President

2nd Vice President

Matthew Moriarty

Mitch Dubin

David Emmerichs

Treasurer John “Buzz” Moyer

Secretary Dan Gold

Sergeant-at-Arms

Gretchen Warthen

dedicates its full support to The Vision Center, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Annually, the SOC meets this challenge with proceeds from the Lifetime Achievement Awards.

To further honor the talented men and women behind the camera, the first SOC Lifetime Achievement Awards took place in 1981. Since its start, over 100 plus golden Cammy statuettes have been awarded, along with over 30 Technical Achievement Awards

Our Mission

The Society of Camera Operators (SOC) advances the art, craft, and creative contributions of the camera operator.

The SOC is an internationally recognized professional honorary Society. The core activities of the Society are the annual SOC Awards, publishing the Society’s magazine Camera Operator, and our charitable commitment to The Vision Center, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

We serve the SOC membership through our commitment to advancing the role of the camera operator by providing education, supporting the development of technology and production methods, and honoring the members who have served before us.

BOARD MEMBERS

George Billinger

Don Devine

Mitch Dubin

David Emmerichs

Michael Frediani

Dan Gold

Geoffrey Haley

Nikk Hearn-Sutton

Rachael Levine

Sarah Levy

Jim McConkey

Matt Moriarty

John “Buzz” Moyer

Sharra Romany

Gretchen Warthen

AWARDS COMMITTEE

Matthew Moriarty (Chair)

Phil Anderson

Craig Cockerill

Pauline Edwards

Mick Froehlich

Dan Gold

Rachael Levine

Janice Min

John “Buzz” Moyer

Jan Ruona

Ben Speck

Mande Whitaker

Rob Vuona

Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles

Jesse Berry, MD

Thomas C. Lee, MD

Although my tenure as Division Chief of Ophthalmology at CHLA has come to an end, my continued appreciation for the outstanding work and the SOC’s dedication to supporting the Vision Center is unmeasurable. Thank you for the countless hours you have cultivated my curiosity about aperture, various lenses, and shooting techniques to further my second passion.

I am grateful for your support and look forward to having some additional time on my hands to see more of the incomparable films you have given us this year.

—Thomas C. Lee,

On behalf of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and the Vision Center, it is with my profound gratitude to thank you for our longstanding partnership with the SOC. Your commitment to helping us provide ocular care to our children, so they may grow up to see the wonderful work you present to us, is amazing.

Having recently been appointed Division Chief of Ophthalmology at CHLA, I’m honored to be a part of this full circle moment, as Dr. A. Linn Murphree, who became connected with the SOC over three decades ago, was my teacher, mentor, and longtime friend.

I am looking forward to continuing his legacy in both my work as an ocular oncologist, and a fervent supporter of the SOC.

—Jesse Berry, MD

Courtesy of Jesse Berry, MD

Courtesy of Thomas C. Lee, MD

The Vision Center, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles

The Society of Camera Operators charitable commitment to The Vision Center, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, through donations and the annual commitment to produce a fundraising video, has yielded $18.8 and counting…

About The Vision Center

The Vision Center, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles is an international referral center for children with complex eye diseases. It is one of the few centers in the country to offer expertise in virtually every pediatric ophthalmologic subspecialty. Board-certified pediatric ophthalmologists care for more than 15,000 patients and perform more than 1,500 ophthalmic surgeries each year, making The Vision Center one of the largest, most respected centers of its kind, treating nearly 20 percent of all retinoblastoma cases diagnosed annually in the United States.

About Children’s Hospital Los Angeles

Children’s Hospital Los Angeles is a nonprofit pediatric health care organization dedicated to creating hope and building healthier futures for children. Selected as the premier children’s hospital in California and among the top five in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, we treat 107,000 young patients annually from Los Angeles and around the world. As a pediatric charity of choice, the hospital relies on the generosity of the community to support its groundbreaking pediatric research and the complex care it provides for critically ill and injured children.

Photos courtesy of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles

President’s Award

John Schreiber is a photojournalist and aerial camera operator at KCBS-KCAL TV in Los Angeles, where he covers a full range of daily news assignments from the most mundane government meetings to some of the biggest breaking news events in Southern California. His job has put him in the middle of protests, pandemics, fires, mudslides, red carpets, victory parades, high-stakes courtrooms and sometimes even puppy adoptions. When not covering stories on the ground, he is a camera operator in the “SKYCAL” news helicopter and serves as the station’s lead drone pilot. He often collaborates with KCAL’s investigative and special projects teams on more in-depth storytelling and won an Emmy Award in 2023 for Best Investigative News Story. Schreiber holds a Master’s Degree in Photojournalism from the University of Missouri, where he was also lucky to meet his wife. His love for photography started in middle school where he could be found in the school’s darkroom developing rolls of black and white film. His passion for photojournalism began while working as the photo editor of The Daily Campus student newspaper at Southern Methodist University during his undergraduate studies. He is reminded every day of how lucky he is to have turned his passion into a career and is always looking forward to his next story.

James Ramos has spent more than three decades behind the camera, chronicling the heartbeat of Los Angeles. Ramos has been a trusted news camera operator for multiple stations. Raised in the San Fernando Valley, Ramos studied television production at California State University, Northridge. He moved on to work as a freelance videographer for CNN-LA Bureau, KMEX and KTTV-Fox11, before joining KTLA 5 in 1992, as news videographer.

Ramos has delivered award-winning coverage of some of the defining moments in LA history, including the Northridge earthquake, the O.J. Simpson trial, and the Los Angeles riots, earning an honor from the Greater Los Angeles Press Club for outstanding dedication. He has also worked on numerous red carpet-award events including the Grammys, Emmys, and Oscars. In 1999, he earned an Emmy for a multi-part feature on the story behind Roswell. In 2004, he received a Golden Mic Award for best live coverage of the Griffith Park Fire.

Earning his commercial drone certification in 2019, he elevated his storytelling to provide aerial footage of Los Angeles area landmarks, during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. Most recently, Ramos provided comprehensive live coverage of the Altadena, Pacific Palisades, and Castaic wildfires, capturing the devastating impact on their residents and communities. Currently residing in Castaic with his wife and daughter, he enjoys mountain biking, nature photography and spending time with his family. For James Ramos, his commitment to get the shots, is an opportunity to tell the story with his images.

James Ramos

Photo by Chelsea Schreiber

Courtesy of James Ramos

John Schreiber

Camera Operator, Film & Television Lifetime Achievement Award

Bonnie Blake, SOC

Unlike Lemony Snicket, Bonnie Blake’s career as a camera operator came about as a series of very fortunate events. As an avid reader and movie goer growing up in Louisville, Kentucky, Bonnie was drawn to the magic of storytelling. By the age of eight, she was determined to explore the world. After graduating with a literature degree from Vanderbilt University and an MFA in Theatre Arts from UNC at Chapel Hill, she moved to New York to begin her quest for adventure. While working as an actor for an off, off Broadway theatre company she took a still photography course and fell in love with cameras and image making.

Despite juggling many part-time gigs, she worked as an assistant for a commercial still photographer who started shooting 16mm film. After learning how to load Aaton magazines, pull focus and record sound on a Nagra, she had a “lightbulb” momen—she could combine these new skills with her passion for collaborative storytelling by working as a motion picture camera assistant. She used her still photography portfolio to gain acceptance to NYU’s summer cinematography program taught by Beda Batka who encouraged her to join the union.

After 12 years as a camera assistant working in various genres including True Love, The Days and Nights of Mollie Dodd, Leaving Las Vegas, and How Stella Got Her Groove Back, Bonnie decided to become a camera operator. She took the advice of mentor Fred Elmes, ASC “to shoot with any camera you can get your hands on” and operated on many non-union projects.

She rerated as a Local 600 operator in 1999. Highlights of her operating career include The Agency, Century City, Monk, Hawthorne, Dirty Sexy Money, CSI:NY, Being Mary Jane, Bunheads, The Goldbergs, Insecure, Doubt, Dead to Me, and The Kominsky Method. Bonnie has also worked as a camera operator and director of photography on international TED Talks, fulfilling her early dream of exploring the world. She has served on Local 600’s Executive Board for 10 years, as well as the SOC’s Board of Governors.

Photo by Beth Dubber

Governors Award

Los Angeles County Fire Department - Air Operations Section

The SOC Governors Award has traditionally been bestowed upon industry figures like Clint Eastwood, Jane Fonda and Sidney Poitier. This year, in acknowledgement of the unprecedented challenges faced by the city the SOC calls home, it is our great honor to present the 2025 Governors Award to the commanders, pilots, aviation mechanics and maintenance staff of the Los Angeles County Fire Department’s Air Operations Section. In just one of their many feats of heroism, these are the firefighters who quickly triumphed over the Kenneth fire which, if unchecked, could have wiped out the homes of a good portion of SOC membership in the western San Fernando Valley, including West Hills, Woodland Hills and Calabasas. On behalf of the entire entertainment community in Los Angeles, the SOC thanks them for their courage and dedication to our city.

Anthony Marrone, Fire Chief

Robert Gaylor, Assistant Fire Chief

Christopher Siok, Battalion Chief

Ethan Jensen, Senior Pilot

Eric Pacheco, Senior Pilot

Michael Sagely, Senior Pilot

Dennis Blumenthal, Maintenance Chief

Justin Hettigoda, Fire Suppression Aid

Helicopter Inspectors: Adrian De Los Reyes and Brian Uhl

Senior Mechanics: Terry Apodaca and Jose Murillo

Mechanics: Mark Enriquez, Andy Jung, Kevin McDougall, Ben Reyes, Jesse Weaver, Marty Fenn, Joe Martinez, Adam Parra, Adrian Sanchez, Alex Gonzalez, Tyrone Mathis, Mike Perez, and Anthony Velletto

Maintenance & Warehouse Staff: Victor Orozco and Neal Maeda

Photo by Skip Robinson

Camera Operator, Broadcast & Live Lifetime Achievement Award

Larry Heider

Courtesy of Larry Heider

In 1969, I was discharged from the U.S. Air Force, equipped with a radar/radio first-class license. My journey into television began when my uncle, Dick Maslan, who worked at NBC in Chicago, helped me secure a summer replacement job for employees on leave. That summer, I embraced a variety of roles, from tech support and cable management to loading projectors for commercials. It was during this time that I discovered my fascination with television cameras. Each evening after work, I would sneak onto the unused news set to practice maneuvering the large cameras, even though they weren’t operational.

This passion led to an opportunity to substitute for a regular camera operator, where I primarily followed the weatherman, synchronizing my movements with his. I was captivated and by the end of that summer, I was offered a full-time position. My role evolved into on-the-scene camerawork for the Chicago nightly news and I soon advanced to shooting sports events for prominent teams such as the Chicago Bears, White Sox, and Cubs.

In the summer of 1971, I made the transition to NBC Los Angeles, where I became a regular camera operator on shows like Days of Our Lives and Return to Peyton Place. My passion for music and variety programming flourished as I worked on iconic shows including Laugh-In, The Flip Wilson Show, and The Glen Campbell Show. In 1973, I ventured into freelance work, a decision that enriched my career over the past 50 years.

I have been privileged to contribute to numerous legendary productions, such as Don Kirshner’s Rock Concert, The Midnight Special, Carl Sagan’s Cosmos, Paul Simon in Central Park, Barbra Streisand: One Voice, Neil Diamond Specials, ER Live, and Dancing with the Stars, among countless others. Throughout my career, I have been nominated for an Emmy Award 45 times, and I have won 16.

International congratulates all the honorees and nominees for this year’s SOC Lifetime Achievement Awards.

Photo by Zade Rosenthal

Otto Nemenz

Camera Operator, Unscripted Lifetime Achievement Award

John Armstrong

Photo by Andy Comins

John Armstrong is a documentary cinematographer/producer/director/writer who enjoys working in challenging environments. He has won three Primetime Emmys for Non-Fiction Cinematography. The first was for the 2002 PBS NOVA expedition film Mountain of Ice about the first ascent of the east face of Antarctica’s Vinson Massif.

Armstrong’s second Primetime Emmy was for The Amazing Race, and his third was for Discovery’s Alaska survival show Out of the Wild. Armstrong began his career when his passions for adventure sports and photography inspired him to shoot his own 16 mm film Paucartambo: Inca River, about whitewater kayaking in the Andes. National Geographic’s surprise purchase of the film persuaded him that perhaps he could make a living in the business.

After a year as a Directing Fellow at the American Film Institute, Armstrong led more filming expeditions. He received the People’s Choice Award at the Banff Festival of Mountain Films for Paucartambo: The Rest of the River , the Grand Prize at Telluride Mountainfilm for Bashkaus: Hard Labor in Siberia , and Best Documentary at Telluride Mountainfilm for Curtain of Ice . Cliff Mummies of the Andes garnered a Best Non-Fiction Program nomination from the International Documentary Association.

As Armstrong gained recognition in the adventure documentary world, producers of competition reality shows took notice. He lensed numerous adventure races, including five Eco-Challenges. He shot several seasons on Survivor and Project Runway, receiving Primetime Emmy nominations for both shows. He also operated on virtually the entire runs of Fear Factor, Wipeout, and American Ninja Warrior, and worked multiple seasons on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, The Voice, Rock Star, and The Contender.

Armstrong played a key role in elevating the status of unscripted camera operators. Frustrated by low pay, lack of safety standards, and minimal union support, he wrote a letter to IATSE Local 600 President Stephen Poster detailing the issues. This led to the founding of the Unscripted Working Group, which has successfully fought for recognition and respect for unscripted camera operators.

Reflecting on his 37 years behind the camera, Armstrong feels grateful to have a career that has almost always felt like play, not work.

Camera Technician Lifetime Achievement Award

Jamie Felz

Photo by Dean Hendler

Camera Technician Jamie Felz got her first job in the industry when a feature film in Miami was hiring film students. She worked briefly as a PA on that movie and on many more jobs after that. With the ultimate goal of working in production design, Jamie often worked in the art department. After realizing the small market would not give her the opportunity to get the kind of jobs she wanted there, she chose to pursue a career in another department; camera.

Jamie had a pretty good handle on physics and math and was raised by creative parents who liked to fix things themselves, often in unconventional ways. This background served her well. She was constantly learning on the many commercials and music videos shot in Miami, not only from the other local camera people, but those from New York, Los Angeles, and all over the world.

Jamie soon found herself working on action-filled second units, shooting races, rigging cameras on boats, motorcycles, off-road vehicles, indy cars, surfboards, jet skis, helicopters, and planes. This is where she found her joy as a technician. The research, problem solving, and time constraints all culminating in the perfect storm.

Jamie always thought of focus pulling as a test of skill and nerves but considered so many other aspects of the job to be equally challenging and more rewarding, like the performance of working in sync with Operators and Dolly Grips.

Although she loved shooting speeding vehicles and flying in helicopters, some of her best memories include incredible vistas on mountains, sunrises on the ocean, and witnessing an incredible actor move an entire crew to tears.

Jamie considers the friends she has made over the years the best part of her career. She is proud of the achievements of those she helped train and others she helped move on to other positions. She feels privileged to have been a part of movies like The Aviator, Kill Bill, A Series of Unfortunate Events, This Is It. And shows like, LA’s Finest, Fear the Walking Dead, Star Trek: Picard, among many others.

Mobile Camera Platform Operator Lifetime Achievement Award

Tim Christie

Courtesy of Tim Christie

My grandfather Art Boyle was a Key Grip on I Love Lucy. In the 70’s, he was Key Grip on Manix and my dad Dave Christie was his best boy. That makes me a proud third generation grip.

My first dolly experience was on NYPD Blue where I spent 12 years learning the art of camera movement. I quickly realized this was a good way to get through the long days because I needed to use my mind, body, and soul to get the shot. When NYPD Blue came to a close I was introduced to Herb Ault who took me around the globe and taught me even more about camera movement using techno cranes, jib arms, and his world famous Grip Trix cars. Herb took me in and made me the Dolly Grip I am today. We lost Herb in 2023 and most of us either know or know of this great mentor to many. I would like to express my deepest gratitude for all he has contributed to this industry.

They say it takes a village, my village is the Grip department which I am honored to be a part of. This business has taken me to amazing places in the world from Kashgar, China to Bangkok, Thailand, Hawaiian islands, and all over the United States. I would never trade my career for a desk job. The change in scenery and crew make this the greatest business to be in. I’ve made friends around the world and across the United States.

I want to thank my Mom and Dad for raising me to understand the importance of work ethics and just how critical being a decent human is. If you want something you need to work for it. And to my wife, Glenda, you are the rock that keeps me grounded. You’ve listened to every story, good or bad. You made sure I woke up when I forgot to set my alarm clock. You raised our children while I was away on many jobs and look at us 35 years later, I love you more now than ever.

Still Photographer Lifetime Achievement Award

Zade Rosenthal

group exhibits and was published in the prestigious Picture Magazine. Some of my images were accepted in the permanent collection of the Dallas Museum of Art. It was awesome to see one of my photographs on display in a museum, especially next to an image by my hero, acclaimed photographer Ralph Gibson. Another highlight during this period was winning an art competition hosted by Dallas’ PBS station and judged by Henry Geldzahler, Curator for the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC.

Besides pursuing my art photography, I made a living as an advertising photographer and photographer’s assistant while also building an advertising portfolio.

I have Ron Phillips to thank for introducing me to the film industry. Ron was in Houston shooting the unit still photography on Urban Cowboy, and he hired me to assist him for a few days. Working on a movie set was so fascinating that I decided to add shooting unit stills to my other photography pursuits, and with Ron’s guidance, I was soon a member of Local 666.

Luckily, in the late 1970’s film production was booming in Texas, and a local company called FPS, which put together crews for Texas productions, started hiring me. After getting hired for movies like Silkwood, Terms of Endearment, and Places in the Heart and seeing my photography used for their promotion in magazines and newspapers, I came to appreciate the importance of my work and developed a real passion for my job.

I became interested in photography during my last year at the University of Texas. After graduating, I returned to Dallas where I had some success with art photography. I was invited to participate in

This amazing job allowed me to be involved in the making of great movies while working on interesting locations around the world and in historic Los Angeles studios. It also rewarded me with gratifying recognition such as the 2007 Publicists Award for Excellence in Unit Still Photography and this SOC Lifetime Achievement Award. Finally, it gave me the opportunity to work with many remarkable actors and crew members and to make wonderful longtime friends.

Courtsey of Zade Rosenthal

Congratulations to all the 2025 Nominees and Honorees!

Photo by Zade Rosenthal

Technical Achievement Award

NODO Film Systems – Inertia Wheels MAX

Boyd Hobbs

Boyd Hobbs is a cinematographer turned entrepreneur and inventor, driven by a lifelong fascination with how things work. Born in Atlanta to an engineer-turned-risk-analyst, Boyd honed his creative and technical skills early, graduating from Full Sail University in 2010. Confronted by limitations in film equipment, he founded his first company, designing ladder-based camera dollies to improve on-set tools.

After winning the prestigious ASC Student Heritage Award, Boyd moved to Los Angeles in 2011 to attend the American Film Institute, specializing in Cinematography. Post-graduation, he built a successful career as a Steadicam operator and commercial cinematographer—a creative pursuit he continues to this day.

In 2015, Boyd co-founded 1A Tools, where he designed the groundbreaking Alpha Wheels in 2016. A pivotal moment came when he realized that a gimbal motor’s feedback force mirrored the properties of inertia, inspiring his invention of the Inertia Wheels. He launched NODO Film Systems to bring this innovation to market, earning widespread acclaim from camera operators worldwide.

By 2022, NODO’s team had grown, and Boyd introduced the Inertia Wheels MAX, further refining the technology and enhancing the operating experience. This innovation laid the groundwork for his latest invention, the Torq Head, which aims to realize universal torque control for camera operators, much like the Inertia Wheels redefined inertia-based controls.

Now holding six patents across inertial-based film equipment systems, Boyd continues to push the boundaries of cinematography technology as the CEO and Founder of NODO Film Systems. For him, working on set remains a vital source of inspiration and creativity, fueling his commitment to advancing the craft of filmmaking.

Courtesy of Boyd Hobbs

Camera Operator of the Year - Film Nominees

Bianca Butti Challengers

Bianca is a cinematographer and camera operator, whose work has been in theaters around the world. She’s had the grace and pleasure of camera operating for Luca Gaudagnino on his last three films, Bones and All (DP Arseni Khachaturan), Challengers, and Queer (DP Sayombu Mukdeeprom). She recently completed Kristoffer Borgli’s (Dream Scenario) latest feature, The Drama, as the “A” camera operator, starring Robert Pattinson and Zendaya (DP Arseni Khachaturan). She has also lensed and operated several indie features, including Measure of Revenge, starring Melissa Leo. As well as Lovers, starring Angela Trumbur, and Sky Valley, starring Morningstar Angeline and J.R. Villarreal. Bianca has worked in the film industry for over 20 years.

Terrence Hayes , “B” Camera Operator Challengers

Born and raised in South Boston, Terrence could have easily spent his childhood playing hockey and stealing cars with his friends. Instead, he studied painting at the Museum of Fine Arts and filmmaking a Massachusetts College of Art and Design, finally landing out west to complete an MFA in cinematography at the American Film Institute. Terrence is an accomplished Director of Photography of independent films such as; Happy Birthday, Ghost Light, and Hello Beautiful.

As a Camera Operator, he has lensed numerous features including Manchester by the Sea, Knives Out, The Holdovers, and Challengers. Terrence lives in South Boston with his son, Hudson, and aspires to tell stories that engage and move the world.

Patrick Quinn , “C” Camera Operator Challengers

Moving to New York City, after growing up in Brockton, Massachusetts, I started traversing the industry ladder. Working with many talented film makers, early in my 30 year career, on The Ice Storm, The Sopranos series, A Beautiful Mind, and The Departed, helped forge a lasting craftsmanship for bringing life to words with operating. Whether it be a car chase on The Instigators or gun battle on The Town or free drives with actors on Hell or High Water and The Night Of or inserts, cut aways, and tennis matches on Challengers, the wave of exhilaration, operating images that move people, is a true reward that always ends with great collaboration.

P. Scott Sakamoto, SOC

A Complete Unknown

P. Scott Sakamoto, SOC, has been operating “A” camera and Steadicam since 1992. A native of Los Angeles, he began his career as a camera assistant, working alongside esteemed filmmakers Haskell Wexler and Newton Thomas Sigel. With over four decades of experience, Scott continues to collaborate with critically acclaimed directors and cinematographers, maintaining a focus on the art of visual storytelling. Throughout his career, he has adapted to the evolving landscape of moviemaking, while staying grounded in the basic principles of cinema. His credits include Road to Perdition, The Revenant, Ford v Ferrari, Maestro, Killers of the Flower Moon, A Star Is Born, and A Complete Unknown. He is also a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS).

Courtesy of Terrence Hayes

Photo by Marie Weismiller Wallace

Courtesy of Patrick Quinn

Photo by Arseni Khachaturan

Michael Fuchs, SOC Wolfs

Michael Fuchs, SOC has been working as a camera operator, based in New York City, since 2008. Unaware of where the time has gone, Michael has lived a fantasy life operating cameras alongside wonderful humans while contributing to meaningful projects. He is especially grateful to have worked with cinematographers Christian Sprenger (Mr. and Mrs. Smith) and Larkin Seiple (Wolfs) over the years and wonders how he keeps pulling the rug over their eyes. As Michael gets deeper into his career he receives a great amount of joy when he is able to help and encourage new operators find their way into the wild circus that is filmmaking, especially when it comes to the task of Steadicam. Michael’s credits include If Beale Street Could Talk, You Were Never Really Here, Trial of the Chicago 7, and Tick Tick Boom.

Rebecca Rajadnya , “B” Camera Operator (NY) Wolfs

Rebecca was raised by parents who shared a love of cinema—a passion they passed down to her. As a kid, she declared Dial M for Murder her favorite film and became the videographer of her own childhood. After high school, Rebecca enrolled in a cinematography course, where she discovered an affinity for focus pulling. Over the next decade, she worked as a 1st A.C. on projects like Hustlers, Russian Doll, and Broad City. Jody Lee Lipes took a chance on her, asking if she would be interested in operating B-camera for his next TV series, Dead Ringers. Since then, Rebecca has been fortunate to collaborate with some of the kindest and most talented technicians—including her “A” operator, Michael Fuchs, SOC—on projects like Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Wolfs, and the upcoming Happy Gilmore 2.

Keith Dunkerley , “B” Camera Operator (LA) Wolfs

Keith discovered his passion for cinematography at 11, experimenting with his family’s VHS camcorder. During middle and high school near Philadelphia, he gained hands-on experience working for a local production company. After graduating from Columbia College Chicago, Keith moved to Los Angeles, where he interned with Janusz Kaminski on Minority Report, learning from an exceptional crew, especially Mitch Dubin, SOC. With 23 years in the industry, Keith has balanced his career as both a cinematographer and a camera operator. He has spent the last 17 years operating on commercials and television, such as The Afterparty, The Wonder Years, and The Santa Clauses. He is currently working on Doctor Odyssey and credits his experience on Wolfs to cinematographer Larkin Seiple and his talented crew.

Courtesy of Rebecca Rajadnya

Photo by Corey Sajous

Courtesy of Michael Fuchs

Camera Operator of the Year - Film Nominees cont...

Courtesy of Karten Jacobsen

Karsten Bloch Jacobsen , DFF

Wicked

Karsten Jacobsen is an “A” Camera/Steadicam operator. He first operated a camera as a 15-year-old at a local Danish TV station. In the 35 years since, he has traveled all over the world for his work on commercials, before operating internationally on films. The story is at the heart of his operating and he enjoys being surrounded by the skilled professionals he meets on every job.

Simon Finney , GBCT, ACO “B” Camera

Operator Wicked

My first job was as a Production Runner on The Dresser in 1983, after which I worked for four years at Joe Dunton Cameras, thus gaining technical knowledge and the required Union Ticket! I went freelance in 1987, working as a Clapper Loader for five and a half years, a Focus Puller for seven and a half, and now a Camera Operator since 2001. I have lit two second units, but operating is still my favourite job and I’m learning every day. After forty one years, I am still buoyed by the talent, energy, initiative, and support I witness on the set. Thank you to Jon Chu, Alice Brooks, Karsten Jacobson, and the myriad of people across all departments and both units on Wicked, and also the SOC, without whom this nomination could not have happened.

David J. Thompson , SOC Civil War

Dave Thompson, SOC is a Camera/Steadicam operator who has been working in the industry for 30+ years. He is known for his work on The Hunger Games films, on which he collaborated with director Francis Lawrence and cinematographer Jo Willems SBC, ASC Dave has been fortunate to operate for cinematographers like Dante Spinotti, Robert Richardson, Florian Ballhaus, Tobias Schliessler, Amy Vincent, and many others. He is also known for his work on Silver Linings Playbook, The Devil Wears Prada, and most recently his collaboration with director Alex Garland, as director of photography, on the A24 feature Warfare. Dave was nominated by the SOC in 2022, in the feature film category, for Apple’s Finch. He currently resides in Greenspring Valley, in Northern Maryland, and finds his inspiration from his wife and son.

Hugh Braselton , “B” Camera Operator Civil War

Hugh Braselton has worked in the film industry for 21 years and has been a member of Local 600 for 18 years. As a 2nd camera assistant, he worked on Avengers: Infinity War, Avengers: Endgame, Prisoners, Passengers, The Accountant, Captain America: Civil War, The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, The Mule, and three of the Fast and Furious films. He was the director of photography of The Arbalest, the 2016 SXSW Grand Jury Prize winner. He has operated on the films A Family Affair, Day Shift, The Family Plan, Juror #2, Civil War and the upcoming season 2 of Peacemaker. He lives in Atlanta with his wife, Emmi, and their two daughters, Sylvie and Lucy.

Photo by Giles Kyte

Photo by Murry Close

Photo by Emmi Braselton

Camera Operator of the Year - Television Nominees

Scott Dropkin , SOC Yellowstone, S5E14 “Life is a Promise”

Scott Dropkin, SOC grew up in Claremont, California. He was raised in a classical musical family. Son of two professional musicians - his mother a harpist and father a tuba player—he learned to appreciate owning and practicing an instrument to make a living. With that and his love of films, when he discovered Steadicam, it was a perfect fit. After studying at Cal State Northridge, his career began assisting on aerial units, before going out with Doggicam equipment. He moved to, and has been, a Steadicam/camera operator for over 15 years. Credits include, Animal Kingdom, Lawman: Bass Reeves, and The Chi. He has many people to thank - Christina Voros, Loren Yaconelli, Lyle Vincent, Bill Wages, Blake McClure, Taylor Sheridan.

Abby Linne, SOC

Abby loves her job. Best seat in the house. She still can’t believe she gets paid for this. Abby grew up in Mansfield, Ohio, and graduated from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. Abby is grateful to have spent the better part of the last few years surrounded by cattle, cowboys, mountains, oilfields, and the grittiest colleagues in the business, working on Taylor Sheridan programs such as Yellowstone, Landman, Lawmen: Bass Reeves, and The Madison. She is especially thankful to the extraordinary community of camera women who continue to provide mentorship and sisterhood. Abby is the director of the Music Video Program at Rock n’ Roll Camp For Girls Los Angeles, where campers are empowered to explore filmmaking without fear.

Jed Seus , “C” Camera Operator Yellowstone, S5E14 “Life is a Promise”

Jed Seus spent his childhood on film sets around the world. A formative experience with an action-packed, multi-camera setup for The Edge, opened his eyes to the creative impact of camera operating. He never wavered from this and began his career in 2002 as a Camera Production Assistant on Big Fish. Over the years, he steadily worked his way up through the camera department, meticulously learning each position along the way. Jed is especially drawn to the challenge and physicality of Steadicam operating. His vast experience ranges from feature films to sports media to episodic television, including the highly acclaimed Yellowstone franchise. Jed now lives in the mountains of Utah with his wife and two young sons.

Photo by Britt West

Photo by Parrish Louis

Photo by Becky Gebhardt

Camera Operator of the Year - Television Nominees

The Penguin, S1E4 “Cent’Anni”

Sam Ellison, SOC is a camera operator and documentary filmmaker based in Queens, New York. His other recent projects include RaMell Ross’ Nickel Boys (Best Picture nominee), and Ann Lee, the upcoming musical from Mona Fastvold and Brady Corbet. This is Sam’s third nomination for Camera Operator of the Year. He was previously nominated in 2020, for A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood and in 2023, for Severance.

Eli Aronoff , SOC “B” Camera Operator

The Penguin, S1E4 “Cent’Anni”

Ever since I was a kid, I wanted to be a camera operator, going to baseball games and seeing the camera guys and thinking that was a cool job. After watching documentaries of The Shining and Apocalypse Now, I caught “the film bug”. After watching Goodfellas, I became obsessed with Steadicam. Upon graduating college, I worked as a camera assistant on low budget films. I joined Local 600 as a loader, working up in the camera department and eventually learned the craft of operating, then took the SOA Steadicam workshop with Garrett Brown. As a camera and Steadicam operator, I can honestly say that I am living the dream. A lot of good people helped me along the way. I am grateful to be where I am, to be a member of the SOC, and to be nominated with Sam Ellison for our work on The Penguin.

Michael Fuchs , SOC

Mr. & Mrs. Smith, S1E1 “First Date”

Rebecca Rajadnya , “B” Camera Operator

Mr. & Mrs. Smith, S1E1 “First Date” Rebecca was raised by parents who shared a love of cinema—a passion they passed down to her. As a kid, she declared Dial M for Murder her favorite film and became the videographer of her own childhood. After high school, Rebecca enrolled in a cinematography course, where she discovered an affinity for focus pulling. Over the next decade, she worked as a 1st A.C. on projects like Hustlers, Russian Doll, and Broad City. Jody Lee Lipes took a chance on her, asking if she would be interested in operating B-camera for his next TV series, Dead Ringers. Since then, Rebecca has been fortunate to collaborate with some of the kindest and most talented technicians—including her “A” operator, Michael Fuchs, SOC—on projects like Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Wolfs, and the upcoming Happy Gilmore 2

Photo by Will Rexer, ASC

Sam Ellison , SOC

Photo by Macall Polay

Courtesy of Michael Fuchs

Courtesy of Rebecca Rajadnya

of Chris Dame

Chris Haarhoff , SOC Fallout, S1E1 “The End”

I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have found a long career in an industry that is both dynamic and fulfilling. Starting out in South Africa, I dared to dream about a future in the U.S. The articles in American Cinematographer fired my imagination throughout the 80’s, featuring the likes of legendary operators and DP’s such as; Vilmos Szigmond, Conrad Hall, Larry McConkey, and Garret Brown. I traveled to the U.S. with a Steadicam, very little money, and an uncertain future. I found Hollywood to be welcoming and inclusive, and in the process of becoming an acceptable camera operator, I realized that the most important ingredient was the company I kept--great friends with whom I continue to celebrate our common goals. Their encouragement, along with a healthy dose of luck, has put me where I could barely imagine almost 30 years ago.

Gary Malouf

The Bear, S3E1 “Tomorrow”

Gary Malouf was born and raised in the Chicagoland area. After studying film at DePaul University, he began his career in the non-union freelance world, while also working at a local camera rental house. He joined Local 600 shortly after and began working his way up the ranks of camera. His collaboration with cinematographer Andrew Wehde led to his first camera operating job on the Bo Burnham film Eighth Grade. Since then he has had the opportunity to work with many talented filmmakers. He is privileged to work with creator Christopher Storer and the entire cast and crew of The Bear. Most importantly, Gary would like to thank his beautiful wife Kelly for her love and support through the years of long hours and endless movie quotes.

Chris Dame , “B” Camera Operator

The Bear, S3E1 “Tomorrow”

Chris, a Chicago native, studied film and art history in college. After graduating, Chris worked at a camera rental house learning film equipment. He has been in the camera department for twenty-two years, and has been operating for the last seven years. In Chicago, Chris has worked on music videos, documentaries, television, and features. He has operated cranes, remote heads, arm cars, and drones. Chris feels very fortunate to have worked on The Bear. He is thankful to Chris Storer, the creator, and Andrew Wehde, the cinematographer, who both granted him a tremendous amount of freedom. Chris wouldn’t be who he is today without his parents. He credits his mother, an artist, for his creative sense; and his father, a sociology teacher, for instilling a love for the collaborative process.

Courtesy of Chris Haarhoff

Photo by Duccio Fabbri

Courtesy

Previous Recipients

Camera Operator Lifetime

• Larry McConkey, SOC 2024

• Don Devine, SOC 2023

• Colin Anderson, SOC 2020

• David Emmerichs, SOC 2019

• P. Scott Sakamoto, SOC 2018

• Garrett Brown, SOC 2017

• Stephen Campanelli, SOC 2016

• Daniel Gold, SOC 2015

• Christopher Haarhoff, SOC 2014

• Bruce MacCallum, SOC 2013

• Paul Babin, SOC 2012

• Michael Ferris, SOC 2011

• Michael Scott, SOC 2009

• Mitch Dubin, SOC 2008

• Norman Langley, SOC 2007

• Ray De La Motte, SOC 2004

• Michael St Hilaire, SOC 2001

Camera Operator of the Year FILM

• Juanjo Sánchez, SOC and Manuel Branáa, SOC, Society of the Snow 2024

• Daniel Bishop, SOC, ASSOC BSC, ACO 2023 All Quiet on the Western Front

• Mitch Dubin, SOC and John ‘Buzz’ Moyer, SOC 2022 West Side Story

• Geoffrey Haley, SOC 2021 Cherry

• Geoffrey Haley, SOC 2020 Joker

• P. Scott Sakamoto, SOC 2019 A Star Is Born

• Roberto De Angelis, SOC 2018 Baby Driver

• Ari Robbins, SOC 2017 La La Land

• P. Scott Sakamoto, SOC 2016 The Revenant

• Chris Haarhoff, SOC 2015 Birdman

• Peter Taylor, ACO, SOC 2014 Gravity

• Mitch Dubin, SOC 2013 Lincoln

• Stephen Campanelli, SOC 2012 J. Edgar

• Colin Anderson, SOC 2011 The Town

• Robert Gerlick, SOC 2009 The Dark Knight

• Jacques Jouffret, SOC 2008 Into the Wild TELEVISION

• Neal Bryant, SOC and Carey Toner, The Last of Us 2024

• Dave Chameides, SOC and Cristian Trova 2023 Ozark

• Manolo Rojas, SOC and Pauline Edwards, SOC 2022 Snowfall

• Jim McConkey, SOC 2021 The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

• Jim McConkey, SOC 2020 The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

• Chris Haarhoff, SOC & Steven Matzinger, SOC 2019 Westworld

• Bob Gorelick, SOC 2018 Stranger Things

• Andrew Mitchell, SOC 2017 The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story

• Steve Fracol, SOC 2016 Scandal

• Christopher T.J. McGuire, SOC 2015 True Detective

• Don Devine, SOC 2014 Mad Men

• Andrew Voegeli, SOC 2013 Breaking Bad

• Andrew Mitchell, SOC 2012 Glee

• David Frederick, SOC 2011 Sons of Anarchy Film Camera Operator

• Lou Barlia, SOC 2000

• Howard Block, SOC 1999

• Vaughn Wilkins 1998

• Joseph S August, SOC 1996

• Ralph Gerling, SOC 1995

• Bill Johnson, SOC 1994

• William Clark, SOC 1993

• Owen Marsh, SOC 1992

• Albert Bettcher, SOC 1990

• David Kurland, SOC 1986

• Til Gabani 1983

• James King, SOC 1981

• Albert Meyers, SOC 1981

Video Camera Operator

• Susan A Campbell, SOC 2000

• Wayne Orr, SOC 1999

• John Lee 1998

• Bob Keys, SOC 1996

• Joseph Epperson, SOC 1995

• George Meyer 1994

• Parker Roe, SOC 1993

• Ben Wolf, SOC 1992

• Paul Basta, SOC 1990

• Robert “Curly” Fonarow 1981

• Sam Greenwald 1981

Camera Technician

• Patrick McArdle 2024

• Tommy Klines 2023

• Heather Norton 2020

• Jimmy Jensen 2019

• John Connor 2018

• Bobby Mancuso 2017

• Gregory Irwin 2016

• David Eubank 2015

• William Coe 2014

• Baird Steptoe 2013

• Zoran Veselic 2012

• Alan Disler 2011

• Bob Hall 2009

• Scott Rathner 2008

• Clyde E Bryan 2007

• John M Walker 2004

• Robert A Torres 2001

Camera Operator, Broadcast & Live

• Dave Hilmer 2024

Camera Operator, Unscripted

• Mande Whitaker, SOC, 2024

Camera Operator, Live & Non-Scripted

• Charlie Huntley 2023

• Dave Levisohn, SOC 2020

• Hector Ramirez, SOC 2019

Assistant Camera

• Kenneth Nishino 2000

• Gary-Olyn Armstrong 1999

• Cal Roberts 1998

• Robert L Greene 1996

• Anthony Rivetti 1995

• Kenneth Hale 1994

• Bruce Catlin 1993

• Robert Feller 1992

• Richard Meinardus 1990

• John Thoeny 1986

• Emilio J Calori 1983

• Charles Termini 1981

• Joe Raue 1981

• Walter Rankin 1981 Mobile Camera Platform Operator

• Rick Marroquin 2024

• Darryl Humber 2023

• J “Moose” Howery 2020

• John Mang 2019

• Dan Pershing 2018

• Mike Moad 2017

• Jack Glenn 2016

• Alan “Moose” Shultz 2015

• Jack Carpenter 2014

• Brad Rea 2013

• Harry Rez 2012

• Peter Romano, ASC 2011

• Al Cerullo 2009

• Larry McConkey 2008

• Thomas Prophet, Jr 2007

• Clay Lacy 2004

• Elizabeth Ziegler, SOC 2001

• Gaylin Schultz 2000

• Tommy May 1999

• Jim Buck 1998

• J David Jones 1996

• Lawrence E Milton 1983

• Harry Jones 1981 Still Photographer

• Claudette Barius 2024

• Bruce McBroom 2023

• Frank Masi 2020

• Peter Iovino 2019

• Jojo Whilden 2018

• Phil Caruso 2017

• Murray Close 2016

• Suzanne Hanover, SMPSP 2015

• Barry Wetcher, SMPSP 2014

• Melissa Moseley, SMPSP 2013

• Andrew Cooper, SMPSP 2012

• David James 2011

• Ralph Nelson 2009

• François Duhamel, SMPSP 2008

• Melinda Sue Gordon, SMPSP 2007

• Stephen Vaughan 2004

• Gemma La Mana, SMPSP 2001

• Marcia Reed 2000

• Wynn Hammer 1999

• Elliot Marks, SMPSP 1998

• Peter Sorel 1996

• Douglas Kirkland, SMPSP 1995

• Phil Stern 1994

• Bud Gray 1993

• David Sutton 1992

• Gene Stein 1990

• Alfred St. Hilaire 1986

• Mel Traxel 1983

• George Hurrell 1981 Historical Shot

• Andy Shuttleworth 2015 Boogie Nights

• J Michael Muro 2014 The Mighty Quinn

• Peter Robertson, ACO, SOC 2013 Atonement

• George Richmond 2012 Children of Men

• Jost Vacano, ASC 2011 Das Boot

• Nelson Tyler 2009 Funny Girl

• Tilman Büttner 2008 The Russian Ark

• Alexander Calzatti 2007 Yo Soy Cuba (I Am Cuba)

• Larry McConkey 2004 Goodfellas

• Leonard J South, ASC 2001 Vertigo

• David M Walsh, ASC 2000 Bullitt

• Philip H Lathrop, ASC 1999 Touch of Evil

• Garrett Brown, SOC 1998 Bound for Glory Governors Award

• Colin Farrell 2023

• Danny DeVito 2022

• Natalie Portman 2020

• Jane Fonda 2019

• John Bailey, ASC 2018

• Michael Keaton 2017

• Gary Lucchesi 2016

• Alfre Woodard 2015

• Penny Marshall 2013

• Clint Eastwood 2012

• Joe Dunton, MBE, BSC 2008

• Haskell Wexler, ASC 2007

• Roger Corman 2004

• Sidney Poitier 2001

• Robert Wise 2000

• James Burrows 1999

• Ron Howard 1998

• Kathleen Kennedy 1996

• Jacques-Yves Cousteau 1995

• Steven Spielberg 1994

• Kemp Niver 1993

• Frank Stanley, ASC 1992

• Joe Biroc, ASC 1986

• Ernest Laszlo, ASC 1983

• John Huston 1981 President’s Award

• Jamie Lee Curtis 2020

• Harrison Ford 2019

• Meryl Streep 2018

• Bruce Doering 2016

• Dan Perry 2015

• Leonard Chapman 2014

• Kyra Sedgwick 2013

• Phil Radin 2012

• IATSE Local 80 2011

• Larry Mole Parker 2009

• Robert Primes, ASC 2008

• Denny Clairmont 2007

• John Bailey, ASC 2001

• Stephen Lighthill, ASC 2000

• Dean Cundey, ASC 1999

• Jack N Green, ASC 1998

• Bob Marta, SOC 1996

• William Hines, SOC 1995

• Howard Block, SOC 1994

• Douglas Knapp, SOC 1993

• Phil Caplan, SOC 1992 Distinguished Service

• Steven Poster, ASC 2020

Previous Recipients

• Denny Clairmont 2018

• Steven Manios Sr. 2016

• Gale Anne Hurd 2015

• Stan McClain 2014

• Woody Omens, ASC 2013

• Sol Negrin, ASC 2012

• Frank Kay 2011

• Andy Romanoff, SOC 2009

• George Spiro Dibie, ASC 2008

• Tim Wade 2007

The SOC Board of Governors Foundation Award for Cinematic Art & Science

• 2018 ARRI Technical Achievement Awards

• 2023 Hudson Spider, Hudson Slider | ARRI Inc., ALEXA 35

• 2022 Cinema Devices, Ergorig System | Motion Impossible, AGITO Remote Dolly Systems

• 2020 SONY: SONY Venice, Rialto Extension System

• 2019 Cinemoves, MATRIX 4 Axis

Trophy Stewards

Stabilized Gimbal

• 2018 DJI, Ronin II

• 2017 SHOTOVER, K1 6-Axis Stabilizer | That Cat, The Patented Silent Cat Camera Slider

• 2016 Cartoni’s Lambda Head

• 2015 Teradek LLC

• 2014 Pictorvision | Motion Picture Marine for Perfect

• 2013 Canon USA | David Eubank

• 2012 Angénieux Optimo Lenses | Grip Trix Electric Camera Car

• 2011 Arri Alexa Camera | Ultimate Arm Gyro-Stabilized Camera Crane

• 2009 GPI/PRO Camera Support System | Slit Scan Motion Picture Photography Process

• 2008 Panavision Genesis | Steadicam Ultra2

• 2007 Arri Group | Preston Cinema Systems

• 2004 Arri Group | Doggicam

• 2001 Hot Gears and Mehran Salamati

• 2000 Eastman Kodak Company | Clairmont Camera and Kenneth Robings

• 1999 Cartoni USA | Geo Film Group | Technocrane, Ltd

• 1998 Fuji Photo Optical Company, Ltd. | Sachtler Fluid Heads | Shotmaker Company

• 1996 HydroFlex | Bob Nettmann and Matthews Studio Electronics Inc. | The Worall Geared Head | Philips BTS Company and Wolter Wolthers

• 1995 Weaver/Steadman | Louma Crane | Vinten Broadcast

• 1994 J.L. Fisher Inc. | John M Stephens | Buzz Aldrin and NASA | O’Connor Engineering

• 1993 Chapman Studio Equipment | Nelson Tyler | Sony Corporation

• 1992 Arriflex Corp | Panavision Inc and Albert Mayer, Sr. | Cinema Products Inc and Garrett Brown, SOC

Society of Camera Operators

Photo by Paolo Arcarese

Claudia Sofia Sepulveda Solis

Photo by Joe Funk

Gloria Bali

Photo by Lee Jameson

Photo by Amy Roach

Amber Buchanan Zane Farmer

Lifetime Achievement Awards

Winners, Nominees & Honorees

www.studiobh.com

Photo by Zade Rosenthal

The Society of Camera Operators members thank Fujifilm for their generous support of the SOC Awards Weekend and hosting numerous members to attend the Lifetime Achievement Awards.

STILL PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION AND SILENT AUCTION

The Society of Camera Operators is pleased to present: Capturing the Spirit: Evocative Moments On Screen

Past Honorees – SOC Lifetime Achievement Award – Still Photographer

Framed works available through Silent Auction on the evening of the Awards, benefitting the SOC’s support of The Vision Center, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles

The exhibition is made possible in part through the generous support of Fujifilm

Phillip V. Caruso

Murray Close

François Duhamel

Ralph Nelson

PHOTO EXHIBIT AND SILENT AUCTION:

Phillip V. Caruso

Phillip V. Caruso

Untitled, 1988, Ron Howard on the set of Parenthood

Steadicam Operator – Robert Ulland, SOC

Camera Operator – Tom Priestley Jr.

Director of Photography – Donald McAlpine, Director – Ron Howard

Phillip’s creative curiosity was influenced by his father’s career as a cameraman and extensive inventory of motion picture and still photography equipment.

After entering the film business, Phillip credits working with Ron Howard, during Imagine Entertainment’s early start, as a turning point to his photography. Through that experience, Phillip met Robert DeNiro, which lead to work with Martin Scorsese, that began enduring relationships with both spanning 10 years and 25 movies. Phillip’s motion picture journey led him to work with noted directors Barry Levinson and John Waters among many more.

Phillip had been a member to all three camera locals, then settled in New York as member of Local 600. During the 1990’s he pioneered the use of digital photography in the film industry. Phillip continues to work on film and television projects for various producers and directors, including Francis Coppola’s recent Megalopolis.

Phillip V. Caruso

Photo by Phillip V. Caruso

PHOTO EXHIBIT AND SILENT AUCTION: Murray Close

Murray

Murray Close

Untitled, 1988

Harrison Ford and Steven Spielberg on the set of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade

Camera Operators – Norman G. Langley, SOC, Mike Roberts & David Worley

Director of Photography – Douglas Slocombe, Director – Steven Spielberg

Recipient of the SOC’s Still Photographer Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016, Murray Close has forged his career capturing stills from the world of cinema. Working under the mentorship of Stanley Kubrick on The Shining provided Close with the basis of composition and lighting that would influence his work from then on, helping forge strong links with the film industry and leaving an indelible mark on film marketing through his evocative photography.

Collaboration’s with cinema’s most illustrious filmmakers including Spielberg, Cuaron & Iñárritu, Close has not only created iconic imagery but his work also retains a deep emotional resonance that connects with audiences. Most recently Close has collaborated with acclaimed British writer/director, Alex Garland on A24’s Civil War and Warfare

Photo by Luisa Bockmeulen

PHOTO EXHIBIT AND SILENT AUCTION: François Duhamel

François Duhamel

Untitled, 2000

Terry Gilliam - The Man Who Killed

Don Quixote

A.K.A. Lost In La Mancha

Director of PhotographyNicola Pecorini

Director - Terry Gilliam

Following a journalist formation in his native France, François Duhamel first came to California in 1979 as a news magazine photographer. Editorial assignments first took him for brief visits to film sets, then to full time collaboration on movies directed by John Cassavetes and John Huston. Having had the opportunity of going to film school with director of photography and friend John Seale, and directors Peter Weir and Roman Polanski, for whom he worked on several occasions, he also has been a regular collaborator over the years for Mike Nichols, Terry Gilliam, and Sam Mendes.

Photo by Jose Garcia

PHOTO EXHIBIT AND SILENT AUCTION:

Ralph Nelson

Robert De Niro directs Matt Damon on The Good Shepherd, 2005 Camera Operator – Fabio Iadeluca; Camera Operator/Steadicam –Larry McConkey, SOC, Director of Photography – Robert Richardson, Director – Robert De Niro

Ralph Nelson

Ralph Nelson attended the Art Center School (now Art Center College of Design), beginning his career as a photojournalist with assignments for Playboy magazine. He was the first staff photographer for the American Broadcasting Company (ABC).

In December 2012, he published a collection of personal work in the coffee table book BOTANICA iPhone Photos.

He was awarded both the 2005 Publicists Guild Award for Excellence in Still Photography and the 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Society of Camera Operators.

He is a founding member of the Society of Motion Picture Still Photographers (SMPSP), serving twice as President, and is now a Member Emeritus.

Ralph’s body of work can be viewed at www.ralphnelson.com and on IMdb.com.

Photo by Anthony Friedken

SOC AWARD NOMINEES AND WINNERS

PHOTO BY SOC LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD HONOREE ZADE ROSENTHAL

Presenters

Voice Over Artist: Katie O’Grady

Katie is an accomplished actress and Emmy Award-Winning Director. She is a filmmaker who writes and directs, focusing on projects with a delightful blend of sharp wit and relatable humor. Her performance in The New York Times Critic’s Picks dark-comedy, Rid of Me earned her a nomination for Best Comedic Actress from Women in Film. Katie is also known for her sketch comedy work for eight seasons in Portlandia. She has made guest appearances on shows for Netflix, NBC, IFC and more.

Katie is the founder of Acting for Kids and Teens and owner of The Studio NW, where she has mentored thousands of artists. Katie resides in Venice, CA where she draws inspiration from the rich cultural tapestry surrounding her.

Justin

Wade

Actor, writer, comedian, Justin Wade was born in Montreal, Canada and raised in Harlem, New York. Paid Regular at The World Famous Comedy Store since 2002, Justin has performed stand-up throughout the U.S., Canada and Europe (for the troops). He’s the creator and host of Actors Night, a talent showcase for actors, writers and directors at The Broadwater Theatre LA since 2018. Seen in over 60 domestic and international commercials. Some of his credits include: The Pitt, Dave, Dirty John, Hot in Cleveland, Don’t Trust the Bitch in Apt 23, and Alias.

Amy Vincent, ASC

Amy Vincent is a Cinematographer whose work spans film and television. Her acceptance into the ASC in 2002 underscored her role as a influential pioneer and champion for women in the film industry. She received the ASC Presidents Award in 2024. Amy recently completed principle photography on Song Sung Blue, marking her fourth collaboration with director Craig Brewer and A Nice Indian Boy for director Roshan Sethi, in theaters April 2025. A devoted educator and advocate for diversity and inclusion across all cinematic disciplines, she actively participates in mentorship, teaching at film schools across the country—including the AFI, FSU, and Loyola Marymount University where she is currently the ‘Distinguished Artist in Residence’ at LMU’s School of Film and Television.

Simon Jayes, SOC

Simon Jayes, SOC, has been involved in the camera department since 1984 and has been a Camera Operator for the last 32 years. Simon was part of the team that built the first TechnoCranes and he moved to Los Angeles in 1990 to introduce this technology into the US through his company: TechnoCrane Ltd. In 2005, Simon added Steadicam to his abilities. Since being in the US, Simon has had the privilege of working with many talented crews and his credits include The Mandalorian and Grogu, Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, Ahsoka, Wonder Woman 1984, I Am the Night, True Blood, A Flag Means Death, Quantum of Solace, Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull, and Miles Ahead, to name a few.

Courtesy of Justin Wade

Courtesy of Katie O’Grady

Photo by Allen Voss

Photo by John Johnson

Presenters

Matthew Moriarty, SOC

Manuel Branáa, SOC

Manuel moved from Uruguay to the United States in 2008 in search of a career in the arts. After stumbling into a film analysis class, where he first studied Hitchcock’s Rope, he was captivated (or held captive) by the relentless yet magical world of film.

Years later Manuel was fortunate to cross paths with Pedro Luque, who became a mentor and a friend. Since then, he has operated and photographed multiple projects around the world. Because of his love for the outdoors, Manuel accepted the invitation to schlep a camera through the icy Sierras to be part of The Society of the Snow for five months.

Manuel looks forward to continuing on the path of sore shoulders, physical therapy, and elevating storytelling for years to come.

Mande Whitaker, SOC

Mande Whitaker has been a trailblazing Camera Operator in the television industry for 25 years working in scripted comedy, unscripted competition, documentaries, and live music/ comedy. Beyond her work behind the lens, Mande is known for her mentorship and building safe supportive working environments. She finds immense joy in supporting DPs and mentoring emerging camera team members. Mande’s dedication has led her to various volunteer roles such as the Local 600 National Executive Board and Safety Committee, co-chair of the Unscripted Working Group, and co-chair of Western Region Women’s Committee. Mande also serves on the SOC Inclusion Committee. You can see her latest work on NBC’s St Denis Medical and the upcoming NBC comedy The Paper airing in 2025.

Juanjo Sánchez, SOC

Juanjo has always been enamored by music and cinema. He began his academic career considering becoming a sound mixer, but after looking through a viewfinder he thought, ‘this is what I want to do for the rest of my life.’

In 1992, Juanjo began to work as a Camera Operator on commercials and documentaries, but what he truly desired was to shoot narrative films. In 1999, he finally had his chance to work as a Steadicam operator. Ever since, Juanjo has been traveling the world looking through a camera.

Juanjo teaches camera operating and Steadicam seminars at Escuela de Cine de Madrid (ECAM), and at the Instituto del Cine Madrid (ICE). Juanjo has been an Active SOC member since 2017.

Courtesy of Franz Moriarty

Photo by Alley-Rutzel

Photo by Pablo Romero

Photo by Martin Piroyansky

John C. Newby, ASC

John began his career in Boston, working in film projection, theatrical lighting, TV news editing and film lab operations.

Later in New York, he worked his way through lighting crafts becoming a gaffer - working with DP’s Tonino Delli Colli, Ennio Guarnieri, Mike Fash, ASC, and Bobbie Byrne, ASC.

In 1987 John began working as an ‘A’ camera operator on feature & television projects, with credits such as Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing, Mo’ Better Blues, and Mario Van Peeble’s New Jack City.

Since 1990 John has worked as a Director of Photography, joining the ASC in 2002.

He was the DP on the award winning series Boomtown and was nominated for an ASC Award for NBC’s Las Vegas.

Dan Gold, SOC

Dan has been a camera operator for over 25 years. He served Local 600 on the National Executive Board and has been an active member of the Society of Camera Operators on the Board of Governors and the Membership, Awards, and Education Committees.

Dan’s A-camera work in feature films includes Air Force One, Spiderman, The Perfect Storm, Primary Colors, The Hangover, 21 Jump Street, and Game Night His television credits include Harry’s Law, Santa Clarita Diet, and Grace and Frankie.

Dan has worked with such notable directors of photography as Laszlo Kovacs, Michael Ballhaus, John Seale, Caleb Deschanel, Don Burgess, Michael Chapman, Barry Peterson and Gale Tattersall. In 2015 he was honored with the Society of Camera Operators Lifetime Achievement Award.

Neal Bryant, SOC

Neal Bryant, SOC was crazy about movies as a kid, and first put on a Steadicam at the age of 16. He joined Local 600 right out of high school and never looked back. Today he works mostly in television in Los Angeles.

His credits include The Afterparty, Barry, The Last of Us, and Grotesquerie, the last of which gave Neal the opportunity to work with Tim Christie, the recipient of this year’s Mobile Camera Platform Operator Award

Neal values the sharing of knowledge, and is extremely grateful to be a part of the SOC. He wishes to congratulate all of this year’s honorees and nominees.

Steve Newman

Steve Newman is a motion picture industry veteran having worked for more than four decades in marketing and publicity for film. Currently heading the still photography division for Feature Film, Documentary and Animation at Netflix, Steve Newman previously ran the still photography departments at Twentieth Century Fox, MGM/ UA, Disney and Lucasfilm. He has freelanced as a Unit Publicist and Marketing Coordinator on over 24 motion pictures including Terminator 2: Judgment Day, True Lies, Beetlejuice, Young Guns, Starship Troopers, Kingdom of Heaven, Total Recall, A Few Good Men, and The Mummy.

Courtesy of Neal Bryant

Courtesy of John C. Newby

Photo by Melissa Sue Gordon

Photo by Chelsea Lauren

Presenters

David Plakos, SOC

David Plakos is an LA based freelance camera operator with over 50 years of experience. He has shot hundreds of music/variety television specials, concerts, and award shows specializing in LIVE events; from Super Bowl Halftime Shows to Presidential Inaugurations to Olympic Opening Ceremonies, as well as multiple TV series. He continues to operate on such prestigious annual television events as The Emmys, The Grammys, The Golden Globes, The Academy of Country Music Awards, and The Academy Awards, and has for over three decades. Plakos has garnered 58 Primetime Emmy Nominations and is the recipient of 11 National Primetime Emmy Awards. He a former Governor of the Television Academy and a proud member of the Society of Camera Operators.

Jesse L. Berry, MD

Jesse L. Berry, MD is a Professor of Ophthalmology, Director of the Vision Center, Director of Ocular Oncology and Vice Chair of Surgery for Academic Affairs at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) and the University of Southern California (USC) Roski Eye Institute. She received her undergraduate and medical degree from Harvard University followed by ophthalmology and fellowship training at CHLA+USC. Her clinical expertise focuses on retinoblastoma and uveal melanoma. She holds the A. Linn Murphree, MD Chair in Retinoblastoma and the Berle and Lucy Adams Chair in Cancer Research. She has pioneered the development of the aqueous humor as a liquid biopsy for retinoblastoma and other ocular tumors. Jesse is mom to Daphne and Lillian, and wife to Paul.

Photo by Zade Rosenthal

Courtesy of David Plakos Courtesy of Jesse L. Berry, MD

to all the 2025 Nominees and Honorees! ww w.arri.com

Photo by Zade Rosenthal

Credits

Awards Committee

• Matthew Moriarty - Chair

• Phil Anderson

• Craig Cockerill

• Pauline Edwards

• Mick Froehlich

• Dan Gold

• Rachel Levine

• Janice Min

• John “Buzz” Moyer

• Jan Ruona

• Benjamin Spek

• Rob Vuona

• Mande Whitaker

Awards Producers

• Matthew Moriarty

• Kristin Petrovich

Director

• Zak Holley

Technical Engineer

• Brandon Boldroff

Engineering

• Holley Video

• Cameron Broadbent

• Garret Vanderleek

Camera Operators

• Chris Metcalf

• Gene Huelsman

• Cole Overholser

• Matt Trujillo

• David Levisohn

Playback

• Cheyenne Wood

Post Producer

• Alex Hemingway

• The Hemingway House

Stage Manager

• Sean Callahan

• Dani Farrelly

Producer

• Kimberly Fischer

Associate Producer

• Madison Matuszewski

Writers

• David Daut

• Matthew Moriarty

Teleprompter

• Donald Frye

Panavision Production Team

• Alex Frausto

• Ric Keyes

• Ed Martinez

• Tyler Miller

• Hector Moreno

• Jeffrey Riekenberg

• Edgar Torres

Production Services

• PRG

• Ty Muson

• Jason Farrell

Lighting Designers, Programmer & LED

• Darren “Daz” Barrows

• Janos Bode

• Luis “Koach” Collazo

• Jason Bach

• Anthony “Rocco” Anthony “Rocco”

Awards Still Photographers

• Sheldon Johnson

• Paul ‘Sal’ Salazar

• John Vincent Vogt

Audio Technician

• Cole Ryden

Host

• Justin Wade

Voice Talent

• Katie O’Grady

Social Media Producer

• Ashlie Sotelo, Your Voice Social Publicist

• Victoria Elder, Victori Solutions

Tribute Book Layout and Design

• Stephanie Cameron

Sponsorship

• Kristin Petrovich

• Jeff Victor

SOC Jazz Band

• John Storie, guitarist/director

• Brian Clancy, saxophone

• Sezin Ahmet, Bass Editors

• Andrew Morris

• Avrajit Mukherjee

• Meltem Saricicek

Motion Graphics

• Colin Cheer

• Matthew Cohen

• Kire Tosevski

Field Production

• George Apodaca

• Anda Arroway

• Blanc Studios

• Sam Brock

• Josh Cornelius

• Tucker Costello

• Kyril Cvetkov

• Sean Devine

• Karenth Guzman

• Taylor Hardy, Fort Worth Film Commissioner

• Cole Harvey

• Stephen Hicken

• Maggie Hong

• Skylar Howell

• Tim Kane

• Patrick LaValley

• Hayden Luscombe

• Madison Matuszewski

• Bridgette Mitchell

• Matthew Moriarty

• Jordan Parks

• Jan Ruona

• Tyler Stephens

• Brandon Soump

• Jason Toledo

• Jerry Turner

• Sam Windell

Still Photography Exhibit & Auction Producer

• Kimberly Fischer Finances

• Angela Delgado

Special Thanks

• Jason Farrell

• Zak Holley

• Holley Video

• Rachel Huber

• Tim Kane

• Michael Koerner

• Koerner Camera

• Hector Moreno

• Panavision

• PRG

• Andrew Tiffen

• Tiffen

• Weldon Color Lab

Photos by Zade Rosenthal

Photo by Zade Rosenthal